10 foods to avoid if you have PCOS

Feb 5, 2025 TOI Lifestyle Desk

Foods to avoid if you have PCOS

Avoid refined carbs, sugary foods, dairy (excess), fried foods, processed meats, artificial sweeteners, excess soy, alcohol, gluten (if sensitive), and trans fats as they worsen insulin resistance, inflammation, and hormonal imbalances in PCOS. Canva

Refined carbohydrates

Avoid white bread, pasta, rice, and packaged cereals as they cause rapid blood sugar spikes, increasing insulin resistance, which worsens PCOS symptoms like weight gain, hormonal imbalances, and inflammation. Canva

Sugary foods and beverages

Limit sweets, pastries, sodas, and juices, as excess sugar disrupts insulin levels, promotes fat storage, and triggers inflammation, leading to worsening PCOS symptoms like irregular periods and acne. Canva

Dairy (in excess)

Excess milk, cheese, and yogurt with added sugar may increase insulin and androgen production, potentially worsening acne, weight gain, and hormonal imbalances in women with PCOS. Canva

Fried and fast foods

French fries, chips, and fried chicken are high in unhealthy fats that promote inflammation and insulin resistance, making weight management and hormonal balance difficult for PCOS sufferers. Canva

Processed meats

Sausages, bacon, and hot dogs contain unhealthy fats, sodium, and preservatives, contributing to inflammation and insulin resistance and worsening PCOS symptoms like weight gain and irregular menstrual cycles. Canva

Artificial sweeteners

Found in diet sodas, sugar-free candies, and processed foods, artificial sweeteners may disrupt gut bacteria, increase cravings, and worsen insulin resistance, which can exacerbate PCOS symptoms. Canva

Soy-based products (in excess)

Excess soy products like tofu and soy milk may disrupt estrogen balance, potentially affecting ovulation and worsening PCOS-related hormonal imbalances in some women sensitive to phytoestrogens. Canva

Alcohol

Alcohol consumption can disrupt blood sugar control, increase estrogen levels, and trigger inflammation, making PCOS symptoms like irregular periods, weight gain, and hormonal imbalances worse. Canva

Gluten (for some women)

Wheat, barley, and rye may cause inflammation in sensitive women with PCOS, exacerbating insulin resistance and worsening symptoms like bloating, fatigue, and weight gain. Canva

Trans fats and hydrogenated oils

Found in margarine, baked goods, and processed snacks, trans fats promote inflammation, insulin resistance, and heart disease risk, making PCOS symptoms like weight gain and hormonal imbalance harder to manage. Canva

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